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health2h ago
Boy, 13, with Tourette's marched out of airport and refused flight for ‘bomb’ comment
- Mason, a 13-year-old with Tourette syndrome, was escorted out of a Gatwick BA flight due to safety concerns, not solely his condition.
- BA said the decision involved a number of contributing factors and was not made because of Mason's disability.
- Armed police escorted the family, and the incident left them in tears as they missed their holiday start.
- The family booked new flights the following day, paying additional costs to continue their trip with a different carrier.
- Tourette Action and supporters argue the incident highlights a broader need for better aviation awareness and training.
- Tourettes Action’s Emma McNally emphasized that tics are involuntary and not a measure of intent.
- The captain on the replacement flight reportedly handled the situation positively, earning praise from the family.
- The incident has spurred calls for a review of aviation protocols to better accommodate passengers with disabilities.
- The family questioned whether staff understood Tourette syndrome and highlighted the need for awareness.
- The family expressed a broader desire for inclusion and education to prevent similar experiences in the future.
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